The rain and clouds covering New York fits my mournful mood today. Yesterday the world lost its biggest Hollyhood. Micheal Jackson. The young black boy from a working class neighborhood in Gary, Indiana passed away a 50. Michael was my first love and my family. We grew up together. He was at my birthday parties, proms and family reunions. There was never an occasion in which we did not play his music. Every kid in my neighborhood, in my school and in my family felt the same way about Michael as I did. Michael was our Black Prince.

Tyrone Hart, the main character in HOLLYHOOD, came to me years ago. He lived in my heart and mind way before I knew his story. And I could feel his spirit and energy long before I knew what he looked like. My characters are very much like real people, in that I get to know them little by little as I do friends in real life. Bits and pieces of character information is discovered as I go along.

We'll be toasting to HOLLYHOOD on June 20th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm in Brooklyn. This is not your average ho-hum book signing party. There will be spirits, tapas, music and prizes. Yes, prizes! If you've read the book and can answer questions about the characters, you are eligible to win cool prizes like a free manicure. There will also be a book discussion, followed by a Q & A.

I'll be signing books. So bring your copy or buy one there!

I look forward to seeing everyone.

THE DETAILS......

When: Saturday, June 20th, 6:00 to 9:00 pm

Valerie Joyner worked behind-the-scene in Hollywood for seven years. Her television credits include In Living Color, The Wayans Bros and The Jamie Foxx Show. She currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.

"In Hollyhood, Valerie Joyner delivers all the juice that's fit to print.
She craftily untangles the lives of Hollywood's rich and so-so famous
with enough sass, smarts and savvy to make you care for these
sometimes twisted souls from beginning to end."

Cori Murray, Entertainment Director, www.essence.com